Airmailing: meaning, definitions and examples

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airmailing

 

[ ˈɛrˌmeɪlɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

postal service

Airmailing refers to the act of sending mail or packages via airplane. This method is typically used for quicker delivery compared to traditional ground shipping. It involves using air transportation for the delivery of postal items to destinations domestically or internationally.

Synonyms

air delivery, air freight, air transport.

Examples of usage

  • Please ensure to airmail the documents to the client.
  • I prefer airmailing my packages for faster delivery.
  • Airmailing is more expensive than regular mailing.
  • He decided to airmail the gifts to his family abroad.

Etymology

The term 'airmailing' derives from the combination of 'air', which refers to the atmosphere or aviation, and 'mail', originating from the Old French word 'maile' (mail) meaning a package or bundle of letters. The concept of airmailing gained traction in the early 20th century when postal services began to utilize airplanes for transporting mail over long distances, especially due to the need for quicker communication during events such as World War I. This innovation allowed for faster postal delivery times compared to traditional ground methods, leading to the establishment of organized airmail services in various countries. By the 1920s, airmail became an integral part of global communication and trade, enhancing connectivity and opening international routes for postal deliveries.